Seven public events have been planned by the Bermuda Diabetes Association for November to help spread awareness and build community.

The activities will recognise Diabetes Awareness Month and encourage early detection of pre-diabetes as well as support healthy living.

Lori Rockhead, the executive director of the BDA, said that making small, proactive changes could have a huge impact on future health.

She added: “Diabetes Awareness Month is a time for our community to come together, take action and be empowered.

“These events are designed to start important conversations and help identify conditions before they lead to serious complications.

“Whether you come on your own or bring friends, family or colleagues, we encourage everyone to get involved.

“Diabetes needs to be talked about more and through education, practical tools and support. We can all take steps to protect our health and improve lives in Bermuda.”

The BDA announced the events in recognition of November as Diabetes Awareness Month.

The association will start off with free eye screenings at its Princess Street location on November 12 and 13.

The 30-minute appointments are open to people who have had diabetes for ten or more years to detect diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and macular degeneration, which can lead to vision loss.

A closed-door men’s sexual health discussion will run on November 13, when men can share how the disease has impacted their wellbeing.

The free session will be led by Jonathan Makanjuola, of DailyMale, and will cover the causes behind such challenges as well as safe treatment options.

It will take place between 1pm and 2pm at the BDA headquarters.

A speaking event, Taking Control of Your Health, will run on the same day between 5pm and 7pm.

The event will combine personal stories, advice and professional expertise to direct people towards a healthy life.

Dinamarie Garcia-Banigan, who works at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Centre and is one of the talk’s hosts, said: “It’s a privilege to be part of Diabetes Awareness Month in Bermuda.

“In partnership with the association, we are dedicated to promoting early detection and preventing diabetes-related complications.

“Every bit of education and each screening can make a vital difference in reducing preventable diabetes-related conditions, including vision loss.”

The BDA will host an on-site open house with free blood pressure and blood glucose checks, as well as pharmacy and nutrition advice, goody bags, a chair fitness class and light refreshments.

That event will be held on November 14 from 10am to 2pm.

The BDA’s Tag Day will involve volunteers around Hamilton raising funds to support its work.

Contributions will go towards the association’s client assistance programme, which offers free medication to people with diabetes who do not have proper insurance, as well as programmes related to education, nutrition and wellness.

The association will also hold free pre-diabetes screenings throughout the month, which will involve an HbA1c finger-prick blood test and takes about 15 minutes.

The public were encouraged to take a risk test that can be found on the association’s website and to book an appointment if they score 5 or higher.